DSP vs RTB
DSP (Demand-Side Platform) and RTB (Real Time Bidding) both come up in business conversations and get confused. Here's the plain-English difference, side by side, so you can use each one with confidence.
The key difference: DSP refers to demand-side platform, while RTB refers to real time bidding — they describe different things even when they show up in the same sentence.
DSP — Demand-Side Platform
The buying side of programmatic advertising — software that lets advertisers bid on ad inventory across thousands of sites in real time.
RTB — Real Time Bidding
The auction mechanic underneath programmatic ads — every impression is sold in milliseconds to the highest qualified bidder.
When to use DSP
Reach for "DSP" when the conversation is specifically about demand-side platform. The buying side of programmatic advertising — software that lets advertisers bid on ad inventory across thousands of sites in real time.
When to use RTB
Reach for "RTB" when the conversation is specifically about real time bidding. The auction mechanic underneath programmatic ads — every impression is sold in milliseconds to the highest qualified bidder.
FAQs
What is the difference between DSP and RTB?
DSP stands for Demand-Side Platform — The buying side of programmatic advertising — software that lets advertisers bid on ad inventory across thousands of sites in real time. RTB stands for Real Time Bidding — The auction mechanic underneath programmatic ads — every impression is sold in milliseconds to the highest qualified bidder.
Are DSP and RTB the same thing?
No. They're often used in the same conversation because they're related, but they describe different concepts. DSP = Demand-Side Platform. RTB = Real Time Bidding.
When should I use DSP vs RTB?
Use DSP when you're specifically referring to demand-side platform. Use RTB when the topic is real time bidding.